FMC Stock Could Rise 21%

The diversified chemical conglomerate is spinning off its slower-growing businesses, which should unlock value for shareholders.

Specialty chemical maker FMC Corp. recently announced plans to split into two public companies, the latest savvy move from a conglomerate that has turned a collection of businesses, from pesticides to biopolymers, into a growing global force.

After the spinoff, the New FMC (ticker: FMC) will retain its fast-growing agricultural solutions and health and nutrition segments, while FMC Minerals will house the more cyclical lithium and...